Review ~ Protector for Hire (Front and Center #4) by Tawna Fenske

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: June 30th 2015

Publisher: Entangled Publishing

Description:
Keeping her safe is crucial. Guarding his heart is impossible. 
Haunted by his time in Iraq, former soldier Schwartz Patton goes off the grid, retreating deep into Montana’s untamed wilderness. Now, ten years into his self-imposed solitude, his brother tracks him down and asks for a favor. A woman is in danger, and she needs help...and Schwartz is the only one who can protect her.

Designer-loving city girls like Janelle Keebler don't belong in the wilderness. Unless, of course, they're witnesses to a murder by their psycho drug-trafficking ex-husbands. Still, Janelle can't help the immediate physical response she has to her sexy-as-sin protector that leaves her wanting more than she could have ever imagined. Even if he does make terrible coffee...

Every word, every touch, every kiss ignites a need Schwartz thought he’d lost forever. He can't stop the desperate attraction simmering between him and Janelle, even if he wanted to. Even if it means it could get them both killed.

My Opinion

I've really enjoyed this series, but I think this one was my favourite for no other reason than it put a smile on my face numerous times. I couldn't remember who every was (except Mac), but it didn't matter. I fell in love with the story and the author's world once more. I've also realised I missed book 3 somewhere along the way!!

It was the characters that made this book for me. Schwartz had cut himself off from everyone he loved as a punishment. Living in the woods alone he didn't have the best social skills, but he had a big heart. Although he came across as closed off at times, he really was sweet deep down and the balance was good. It me made fall in love with him too as he revealed more about himself.

Similarly, Janelle's personality brought him from his shell. She was bubbly and excitable, contrasting with Schwartz well. I liked her flirty side and how she teased him until he couldn't take it any longer. She also genuinely cared.

As for the story, the plot was simple and predictable, but it was an enjoyable easy read. There are a lot of innuendos--a lot of them cheesy--but they made me smile and kept me entertained as the characters flirted. It gave a nice light-heartlessness to the book so it wasn't all doom and gloom.


Overall, this was a great read. The characters connected with me well, had great personalities, and grew together. I liked the story and can't wait to read more by this author.

4.5

Mini Review ~ Tough Love (Stripped, #0.5) by Skye Warren

ebook downloaded for free via Amazon.

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
I sneak out of my room every night. My father's guards don't see me.

No one sees me, except him.

He's the son of a foot soldier. My father is his boss. The boss. I shouldn't even know Giovanni. And I definitely shouldn't kiss him. Our relationship is doomed to fail, but that won't stop me from being with him.

Not every girl wants to be a princess. I just want to be free.


My Opinion:
An interesting prequel. I like books involving the mafia, which was why I downloaded it. I'm not sure where the story will go from here and I'm still on the fence about whether I'll by the next one, but it was quick and intriguing.

3

Review ~ Undersold (City's Secrets #1) by B.B. Hamel

ebook downloaded for free via Amazon.

Release Date: February 11th 2015

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
I can barely keep myself under control when the boss is around. I can’t imagine what the office might think . . .

My life is crumbling all around me. My dad is dying of cancer, my job barely pays the bills, and I have crushing student loans hanging over everything.

But things change when I meet a mysterious man online. He’s sexy as hell, passionate, and ripped in all the right places. I can’t take my eyes off the dirty texts and pictures he sends me.

It turns out that my mystery date is notorious reclusive billionaire Shane Green, and he’s planning on buying a smartphone app that I wrote myself. Now I’m stuck working for the man who looks at me like he wants to tear my clothes off every day. He’s controlling and incredibly private, and he loves pushing my buttons with that cocky grin.

There are new rules, rules which threaten everything around me. I need to figure out how to deal with my overwhelming desire for my new boss or else risk giving him more than I bargained for.

My Opinion

This was an easy, enjoyable read. It had a simple story that wasn't taxing at all and therefore was great to chill out with during the evening.

Undersold is basically the typical billionaire boss romance where Amy falls for Shane. There are a few twists and secrets revealed that make it slightly different, but generally it followed the standard road. I'm not saying that's a bad thing, it's what I was looking for.

Anyway, I did feel there could have been a bit more character development. I knew they were all hiding things but everything comes out in the last few pages. For something built up over the entire book it felt a little anti-climactic. Saying that, I did engage with the characters. I would have liked to hear more of Shane's 'dirty talk' as I was told about it a lot but never got to witness it. It all comes down to they needed developing a tiny bit more.

As for the story, it kept me hooked. I wanted to keep reading and know what was going to happen. It's one of those easy romances that's just a nice relaxing read.


Overall a good read, and it was free! I'm not sure if I'll read more, but I'd recommend it. You can't really go wrong with the price.

4

Review ~ Rumor Has It (Limelight, #1) by Elisabeth Grace

ebook downloaded for free via Amazon

Release Date: December 2nd 2013

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
***THIS BOOK CAN BE READ AS A STANDALONE***

All publicity is good publicity, right? Unless you’re recent college grad Ellie Wagner and an embarrassing video of you and your boyfriend goes viral. Every man in your life abandons you, but who knew a one-minute clip of your latest doomed relationship would brand you a slut, prevent you from getting your perfect job, and force you to keep doing the one thing you swore you’d never do again…live with your mother.

But staying with mom and her latest boy-toy (is this husband number four or five?) until your life turns around might not be all bad. Especially when you fall – literally – at the feet of a sexy, green-eyed stranger who offers you freedom and a life of luxury on a gold-rimmed platter.

There’s only one little problem – the man of your dreams is none other than Mason Nash, the latest hip-hop star busting up the music charts. Fame and fortune are his calling cards and he’s vying to steal the show on a new reality TV series that will catapult him into mainstream stardom. Hello spotlight.

The man behind the famous persona is perfect for Ellie in every way, but can she overcome the ugly pitfalls that come with Mason's celebrity status? Or will she be forced to choose between the man she loves and the independent life she longs for? After all, fame and fortune aren’t always what they seem and not all publicity is good publicity…

My Opinion

This was another sweet read that surprised me seeing as I downloaded it for free on Amazon. The story kept me entertained and I found it hard to get on with things I needed to do when I still had a bit left to read.

Rumour Has It is a cute read. I was great for lounging around in the sun with its mostly light-hearted story line and its fast-paced plot. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was surprised by how well it kept my attention and connected with me. For the most part I liked the characters and a lot of the situations had me grinning.

I thought Mason was a nice guy. Unlike the normally dominant rockstar I find in these books, he was surprisingly chilled and laid back--except for the family drama. As a hip-hop star he didn't come with all of the preconceived notions I attach to these types of books even though he had gone through a man-whore stage in his fame. Similarly, I liked Ellie. I respected her for her loyalty and thought she fit him well.

My only issue was things between them as a couple did move pretty quick. I would have liked their first kiss to have been delayed longer and for the tension to build. I also wasn't really a fan of the ending. I knew something had to happen, but Mason's trust dissolved so quickly even after what Ellie does for him.


Anyway, overall this was a good read. It kept me engaged and entertained and I'll most probably read more by this author.

4

Review ~ Unforgettable (Unrated #1) by Samantha Hunter

ebook downloaded for free via Amazon

Release Date: January 1st 2014

Publisher: Mills & Boon (Blaze)

Description:

Unforgettable. After losing nearly a decade of memories, firewoman Erin Riley is starting over. But the dark, intense gaze of her ex, Fire Marshal Bo Myers, haunts her days and her erotically charged nights. But, when they discover there's a serial arsonist targeting firefighters, the only way to save lives is by risking both of their hearts.

My Opinion

This is one of the better freebies I've read in a while. It had a different plot that I don't see all that common in romance novels, and it was a gentle read that immersed you in the author's world.

For me Unforgettable was unique because of Erin's amnesia. Although I've seen this before it's not common. I liked watching her find herself and Bo again, and thought things moved along at a steady pace. The twist with the fires and mystery surrounding what was happening had me hooked.

I will admit it didn't draw a huge emotional response from me. I thought the author wrote about the amnesia in a very subtle way. Erin coped well and I think I would have liked to see her break down more.


Overall though this was a good read. Like I said, it is one of the better freebies I've read and was it was a good book I could relax with. It wasn't too taxing or emotional but it was sweet.

4

Review ~ A Change of Plans by Robyn Thomas

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: June 30th 2015

Publisher: Lovestruck (Entangled Publishing)

Description:

Sara Greaves has been planning her perfect wedding since she was five. Instead, she's dumped by her fiancé and meets Ethan Monroe—Mr. Dall, Dark, And Anti-Marriage—who bets that she could marry any guy in Vegas and make it work. Except now Ethan has a hangover, a wedding band, and a sexy, gorgeous bride for the next month. He''ll have to convince the new Mrs. Monroe that marriage is a crock....and hope like hell that his little change of plans doesn't turn into a change of heart.

My Opinion

I wanted to like this, I really did. The idea sounded interesting and it hinted at comedy and a steamy romance. However, even though this is only a novella, it's taken me a few days to get through.

A Change of Plans started off well. I liked that it began with Sara picking up and leaving everything behind to head to Vegas to be daring. It was a bold move and I wanted to know how things would play out. Similarly, when Ethan got involved things started to become even more interesting.

However, unfortunately it didn't last for me. I found things moved too slowly and there were a lot of events that felt irrelevant. From the blurb I just wanted to get to the marriage part and it seemed to take forever to arrive. When it finally did, I was slightly disappointed. Everything felt muted. Emotions weren't  strong, situations were too short, details were missed, and things moved too quickly. It was a strange read for me because the first half was too slow and the second half was too quick.

I don't know, maybe I would have felt different if I'd connected with the characters, but Ethan was so closed off. You never really learn anything about him, and then there's Sara who just seemed to go with the flow. After what had happened to her I expected stronger emotions. Her character seemed inconsistent with when she stood up for herself and when she didn't.

As for the ending it all seemed to come out if nowhere. New threads were introduced and I felt they were under developed. Then it just ends. Things are tied up, but not satisfyingly. They're rushed and seem too easy.


Overall this isn't a bad read. I know it doesn't sound like it, but is was a nice little story. It didn't draw any emotion from me and I think the pacing and timeline needs work, but it was okay. Maybe if it was longer and more developed I would have liked it better because the idea was good.

2.5

Review ~ Owed: One Wedding Night by Nancy Holland

ebook received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: June 4th 2015

Publisher: Harper Impulse

Description:
Jake Carlyle always gets what he wants… especially when it comes to his runaway bride.

To save her family's business, determined Madison Ellsworth must turn to Jake Carlyle, her ex lover and the man she left standing at the altar.

Jake eventually agrees to help, but on one condition – he gets what he’s owed. His wedding night.

Still in love with Jake, Madison agrees, but once the passionate honeymoon is over, she can’t help but wonder if their marriage is based on convenience, love – or revenge.

As they deal with the failing business, Madison and Jake soon learn that high-stakes games played in the boardroom inevitable will spill over into the bedroom!

My Opinion


This is a tough one for me. I enjoyed it, it was quick, and it was a pleasant story, but there's one thing prevent me from pushing it into the really liked category.

Owed: One Wedding Night is an intriguing read that kept me hooked. I didn't realise how quickly I was getting through it at one stage. The story was enjoyable as the characters fought and made up, and I liked the idea.

I also thought it was paced well. The book held my interest right the way through.

The thing I mentioned preventing me from rating it higher is the romance, but bare with me on this as it's not that simple.

This book centres around Jake and Maddison finding each other again. After Maddison left Jake at the altar she needs his help a few years later. This means from the start their relationship is more like a business deal. Whilst that's not a bad thing, it didn't leave much room for sparks and masses of chemistry. I kind of expected there to be more of a connection but I felt both Jake and Maddison were cold. They also didn't talk so there was little emotional depth. We are told their feeling, but I never felt them.

All of this meant the backwards and forth relationship drew little emotion from me. I enjoyed it and it was a pleasant read, I just wasn't invested in it.


Overall it's an easy read I'd recommend. It doesn't have the greatest romance, but it was still enjoyable.

3.5

Book Tour Review + Giveaway ~ Trusting The Boss (Billionaires in the City #4) by Mallory Crowe

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: June 19th 2015

Description:
Billionaire heiress Emma Devaroux has been living a safe-yet-mundane existence in Georgia for too long, but when she learns her sister, Joslyn, has been arrested, she heads to New York City to find out what really happened. Unfortunately, as an unemployed debutante, she’s not exactly qualified to be leading an investigation. But help is at hand in the form of the handsome, former military man Jace Lance who happens to be the one who got her sister arrested in the first place. 

Jace thinks Emma is crazy for even considering working with him since he’s the one who stopped Joslyn from killing his former client. However, he can’t deny that the sexy southerner is in over her head when her tycoon cousins try to hire him to make sure Emma doesn’t find out the truth about what really caused her sister’s murderous actions. 

As they begin to uncover the truth together –and get to know each other intimately – it becomes clear that the more answers they get, the more danger Emma is in. Jace is determined to protect her, but how can he keep her safe when her whole family is in on the conspiracy?

My Opinion

Once again this broke away from the pattern of the previous books. Whilst it followed the same line as book 3, whereby the woman was the one who had the money, there was no corporate/business side to things. Emma is wealthy from inheritance and it made for a nice change of pace I think.

Trusting the Boss is my favourite of the whole series. I know I've said this with every book since Teasing the Boss, but in my opinion the writing and plots became better as the series went on.

I always like hot bodyguards in books, and that's exactly what Jace was. I liked how his protective desire increased as his feelings became real and I believed he really did care about Emma. Similarly, I'm glad that Emma put more importance on her life. In book 3 Victoria didn't so it was an improvement.

As for the story there are some plot holes. With the whole series you have to suspend reality and not question the stories too deeply. There are decisions that are made that seem stupid or out of character to purely get the book to the action and tie the story up. It's not always that believable, and not everything is worked out in detail, but it's still enjoyable.

Similarly, this author doesn't exactly tie everything up. The H/H get their ending but she always forgets the secondary characters. What did Luke and Michael do? How did they? Why did Joslyn do what she did? There are always questions I'm left with.


Anyway, overall these are easy reads. You shouldn't think too hard over them and they're good to kill a few hours.

3.5

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25500846-trusting-the-boss?ac=1

Buy links:
Amazon Kindle: http://amzn.to/1IwD94M

Book Tour Review ~ Tempting The Boss (Billionaires in the City, #3) by Mallory Crowe

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: March 26th 2015

Description:
As the CEO of a multi-billion dollar retail chain, Victoria Green isn’t used to asking for help, especially not from too attractive for their own good repairmen like Dean Carey. After Victoria is attacked at her own party and Dean fights off the culprit, she’s forced to tell him her secret: Victoria’s father is on his deathbed, and her brother, who nearly ran the company into the ground, might be willing to do anything to make sure controlling interest goes to him. 

Dean wants nothing to do with the ice princess CEO, even if he can’t keep his eyes off certain… assets of hers. He’s got enough on his plate between trying to get enough work to pay the bills and raising his little sister who’s growing up much too fast for his liking. Despite his misgivings, when Victoria offers him a blank check if he will keep his mouth shut about what he saw and shadow her until she can hire a more qualified bodyguard, he can’t bring himself to turn down that kind of cash. 

Over the next few days, Dean learns Victoria isn’t as cold as he first thought and Victoria realizes that Dean is so much more than a handyman. But someone wants her dead and if they don’t figure out who and stop them, they might never get their happily ever after.

My Opinion

In the third instalment of this standalone series the author has changed it up so the billionaire/CEO is a female. When I first saw this it did make me slightly hesitant as it normally means the woman is an ice-cold, heartless, and ruthless dictator. However, from getting an insight into Victoria's life in Teasing the Boss, I was intrigued to find out her story. I also think it's my favourite in the series so far. 

Tempting the Boss, like the previous two books, was a quick, easy read. I liked the relationship in this book most and thought there was a good amount of chemistry and tension between Victoria and Dean. Whilst Dean isn't the domineering CEO, he the sweet, loyal guy-next-door type who you can't help fall in love with. His situation with Katy and how he took on his parents' responsibility was admirable and it only made you love him even more. He was a good guy through and through, but he wasn't meek or timid to say what he really thought around Victoria. I thought they were a good pair. 

Similarly, I though the author did a good job of making Victoria likeable. She had feelings unlike so many female characters I've read about in similar positions. I will admit that she made some stupid choices that at times didn't seem all that believable. I would have thought with someone trying to kill her she'd take less risks. For me a few here and there is fine, but she did have a disregard for her safety and I did roll my eyes a few times as it seemed all to easy to get her in trouble. 

Saying that, I did like all the drama. The killer was slightly obvious, but it was still an enjoyable story. Also, there were a few loose ends where not all relationships were tied up.


Overall this has been my favourite in the series so far. Now on to book four.

3.5

Review ~ The Stars Never Rise (Untitled Series, #1) by Rachel Vincent

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: June 18th 2015

Publisher: Mira Ink (Harlequin UK)

Description:
Sixteen-year-old Nina Kane should be worrying about her immortal soul, but she's too busy trying to actually survive. Her town's population has been decimated by soul-consuming demons, and souls are in short supply. Watching over her younger sister, Mellie, and scraping together food and money are all that matters. The two of them are a family. They gave up on their deadbeat mom a long time ago.

When Nina discovers that Mellie is keeping a secret that threatens their very existence, she'll do anything to protect her. Because in New Temperance, sins are prosecuted as crimes by the brutal Church and its army of black-robed exorcists. And Mellie's sin has put her in serious trouble.

To keep them both alive, Nina will need to trust Finn, a fugitive with deep green eyes who has already saved her life once and who might just be an exorcist. But what kind of exorcist wears a hoodie?

Wanted by the Church and hunted by dark forces, Nina knows she can't survive on her own. She needs Finn and his group of rogue friends just as much as they need her.

My Opinion

When I received a copy of this book I shouted out loud in happiness. Those of you who follow my reviews will know I'm a big fan of this author and have read every book she's ever released. For that reason I've been dying to read The Stars Never Rise, and it's been so hard putting off reading it until the release was nearer.

Anyway, the concept of this book sounded intriguing. Although I've come across plenty of books with demons, the idea of exorcists was mostly new--in the sense of what Vincent has written.

Whilst The Stars Never Rise was an enjoyable, quick read that includes everything I've come to love from this author, it isn't my favourite of her releases. That's not to say I didn't like it, I think I was just expecting something different.

Th story is set in New Temperance after a war with demons. The Church is in control, there are many things that are considered sins, and there are rules about how people should live. The book centres around Nina and her story as things start to unravel, but that's where my main issue lay in this book: the religious undertone. It wasn't what I was expecting and it's a purely personal taste. I knew there would be some, just not as much.

Similarly, a lot of the action takes a while to build. This book does feel like it's setting up the bigger picture and explaining things more than having a riveting plot. The next book does sound more promising going off the end.

I know all of that sounds like I don't like this book, but that's not the case. I just don't think it compares to Vincent's previous work. The characters were strong, the idea of Finn is interesting and intriguing, and I can't wait to see what happens next. There is a hint of a relationship beginning, but that doesn't play out the way I was expecting, which was a pleasant surprise as it was different from what's out there.


Overall, this was a good read. I'll more than likely read the sequel as I love this author, but it didn't blow me away as much as her other books. I'm certain the reasons for that are personal tastes so I'd definitely recommend it.

3.5

Cover Reveal + Giveaway ~ Loving Red by Alisha Costanzo

Blurb

For Sergeant Severins Bouvier, silence means tactical planning and a large death toll, and he can’t shake how danger threatens him on the beaches of Miami, especially after seeing one of his associates in a local sandwich shop. Worse, the enemy seems fascinated with the woman he can’t stop thinking about—a woman determined not to trust him.

Everything about Sev crashes through Kaia’s carefully placed boundaries, traps, and avoidances. Regardless of her lack of interest in the majority of men, the ones that did catch her off guard left a lot of collateral damage. Who better than a soldier to understand that?

The problem is that she trusts him. Just not with her heart.

Kickstarter

EXERPT

“Something feels different about this place,” she said, voice soft but spreading across the grounds like an earthquake.

“It’s protected. That’s what you feel.”

A short, frail-looking male swung open his front door and appeared on the square wooden porch. His skin marbled like the bark of an old oak with tints of green. Long and wide eyes assessed Severins and Kaia before his gaze slashed to Kaia’s vampire friend, Kalib. The performance was rather dramatic.

“You said one—a single, human female. Human. That is not human.” The dryad’s twig-finger pointed to Severins with further flair.

“We were lacking in our information. The wolf is no harm to you.”

“No harm. No harm!” His hair sprouted green and miniature ivy fell around his ears. “At best, he’ll piss on my plants. At worst.” The small man’s voice squabbled high and fluttered through the leaves above. “At worst!”

Kalib rolled his eyes, and Severins shook his head. Kaia, however, seem entranced with the dryad’s tirade.

“Eilon. Fucking wood nymphs. Eilon.”

“Oh no, sir. You can stay in your pretty little metal box for that.” Eilon slammed his door again in a giant huff.

Kaia jerked and came back to the small clearing. Her eyes took on a darker green in these woods. “He did not like either of you very much.”

“Tree-folk aren’t group friendly unless there’s a ceremony or an orgy, although they’re practically the same thing to them.” Kalib pulled two long swords from behind his seat—long enough they shouldn’t have fit back there. He strapped them into holsters hidden beneath his loose cotton shirt. “I’ll take first watch.”

“Dryad’s don’t like wolves too much—territorial and all that. Piss in the wrong part of the woods once, and it’s like you killed their elder.”

“Did you tinkle on one of his plants?”

Severins snorted in delight at hearing the word tinkle come out of her mouth. “No, I’m house-trained, beautiful.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alisha Costanzo is from a Syracuse suburb. She earned her MFA in creative writing from the University of Central Oklahoma, where she currently teaches English. She’s the author of BLOOD PHOENIX: REBIRTH and BLOOD PHOENIX: CLAIMED, and co-editor of DISTORTED. In the meantime, she will continue to corrupt young minds, rant about the government, and daydream about her all around nasty creatures.
Author (Contact Links)

Website: http://alishacostanzo.weebly.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brokenworldauthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlishaCostanzo
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4618491.Alisha_Costanzo
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Alisha-Costanzo/e/B00H2R9W9E

Giveaway

2 ARC e-copies 

4 solid perfume sets

5 signed bookmarks

1 Miss Red Plush

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

*This giveaway is run by the author and only hosted here as part of the tour. Lost to Books is not responsible for the running, choosing of the winner, or prize distribution. 

Review ~ A Kiss In the Dark by Lisa Fox

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: June 18th 2015

Publisher: HarperImpulse

Description:
Grace’s attraction to her new web designer, amateur boxer and all-around playboy, Ryan Granger, is off the charts. But the bad boy of programming is not someone she needs to get entangled with. She’s got too many responsibilities and no time for games. She has deadlines to meet and a sick father to care for. Ryan is tempting, but being with him is completely unrealistic. Still, a girl can fantasize, right?

Ryan wants Grace badly, but while he’s building her website, they have to keep things strictly professional. Thankfully, walking her home during a city-wide blackout is on his own time and whatever happens in the dark doesn’t count. He’s falling hard for Grace and he is a man used to winning. The only problem is, he’s got to convince her that he’s worthy of her trust.

My Opinion

I'm really not sure what to make of A Kiss in the Dark. I wanted to like it as I've read all of this author's previous HarperImpulse books and enjoyed them, but there's something about this read that just didn't connect with. It's by no means a bad book, I think it's just one of those reads that wasn't for me.

My main problem was I never connected with the characters. There was little development and it was a very in-the-moment book. Sure, there are a few background details, but I didn't really see any growth. I wasn't vouching for the characters to get together, and I didn't feel the chemistry. It was all a bit unrealistic in my opinion. For the concepts drawn up in this book, I don't think the short length did the story justice. Had it been longer and spread out over a wider time scale then it would have probably connected with me more. However, the length meant everything is so instant. There wasn't time for me to fall in love with the characters or buy into their relationship so that when they did have sex or declared their love it felt natural.

I wanted to like their story, but no matter how hard I tried I still found myself skimming.

I'm not going to go into details about the characters because I don't really have much to say. They were a bit bland for me, but once again this is down to the lack of development.

Overall, this was an okay read. One Kiss is still the best book this author's released in my opinion and I'd recommend that over A Kiss in the Dark, but you may want to give this a go. It wasn't bad, just wasn't for me.

2.5

Review ~ Controlling Her Pleasure (Under His Command #1) by Lili Valente

ebook downloadedz for free via Amazon.

Release Date: February 16th 2015

Pages: 152

Description:
Blake Roberts has everything he’s ever wanted—fame, money, and ownership of the hottest chain of tattoo parlors in the country. But he’s haunted by his first love, the matching tattoo they share a constant reminder of who he was before he learned how to control his emotions, his desire, and a woman’s pleasure. 

He needs to purge her from his heart, and he’ll do whatever it takes to be free.

Erin Perry’s been burned by love and she’s not ready to put her body under a man’s control, let alone her heart. But then Blake shows up, the only man she ever truly loved. Blake is ruthlessly handsome, and seething commanding energy that has her aching to submit.

To be pleasured, tamed, owned, and put under His control.

Warning: This book features a big, tattooed, Dominant alpha male—give him your trust and he’ll command your pleasure. All. Night. Long.Cliffhanger Alert: This steamy read ends in a cliffhanger. If you don't like being teased, steer clear. The entire Under His Command series, Erin and Blake's complete love story, will publish in February and March of 2015.

Mini Review

Review ~ Single, Volume 1 (Single #1) by Lyra Parish

ebook downloaded for free via Amazon

Release Date: January 4th 2015

Pages: 90

Description:
After failing miserably at love, Roxane VanBuren swears off men but not before her determined best friend shows her all the advantages of being single. After a wild weekend full of sex, old-flames, and secrets, Roxane is desperate to forget it ever happened. But she learns it isn't that easy.

Since becoming the President of VanBuren Investments, she knows how important it is for her professional and personal life to remain separate from one another. If the two were to mix, the rumors could possibly ruin her reputation, which is bad for her and bad for business. To avoid that, Roxane allows rules to define and guide her every move. Unfortunately for her, Parker Williams is determined to break them all, one at a time.

My Opinion

Meh ... that's all I'm feeling after finishing this. It was okay, but didn't really excite me enough to want to continue with the serial. It took too long for things to get interesting and then just as they do it cuts off. I found most of the chapters irrelevant. Until the party, I didn't see the point in them or the characters. What was Jake's purpose? He didn't add anything and made the plot drag out. It was obvious what was going on with Parker and Roxanne so I just wanted that plot to develop quicker.

Overall I really don't see the need for it to be broken up, but that's the author's choice. It was an okay read, but it hasn't made me fall in love with it enough to spend money on the next 2 instalments. I may have borrowed them if they were in KU, but sadly they're not.

2

Review ~ Teasing The Boss (Billionaires in the City, #2) by Mallory Crowe

ebook received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: March 11th 2015

Description:
Premier business consultant Simon West can turn around any struggling billion dollar corporation in New York City, but he can’t get what he wants most: revenge against Mark DuFord. The slick investment banker's shady dealing led to Simon’s best friend’s suicide. Wealthy, and well-protected by the political influence he’s been able to purchase, DuFord has become untouchable—or so he thinks. But when DuFord’s former girlfriend asks Simon for help, he knows that Grace Bell is the weapon he needs to finally destroy his enemy completely. All Simon has to do is pretend to love her. 

Grace Bell knows that approaching hot-shot Simon West to save her business is a long shot, but she’s desperate. After growing up with a family that expected her to be a happy housewife, she’d proved them all wrong when she became the go-to event-coordinator in New York City. But after the tabloids took a completely innocent picture of her with a married senator and misinterpreted the situation, she’s losing clients left and right. When she approaches Simon and begs for his help to resuscitate the business she put her heart and soul into, she never expects him to agree. Or that the payment would be posing as his lover as an excuse to get close to her ex. 

Simon knows if he goes forward with his plan, it's only a matter of time before Mark realizes what they're up to and Mark’s enemies have a way ending up broke, in jail or six feet under. As Simon and Grace grow closer, Simon must decide if putting her in the line of fire is worth avenging the past.

My Opinion

I preferred this book to Teaching The Boss. When I saw them both up on NetGalley this was the one that caught my interest and convinced me to take a chance on them.

The books in this series are easy, quick reads. I found the romance in this one was better and there was more tension and chemistry between Simon and Grace. It took a while to build and they became partners through business first. I thought Simon would be more of an ass so it surprised me that his attitude was tamed, but I thought Grace was a good match for him. I liked that she was able to handle herself and think on her feet without coming across as bitchy. She was true to their agreement and I respected her for wanting to help.

As for the plot, for the most part I liked it. I only had problems with the last 20% or so. Things became a bit far fetched for me and it seemed like an easy way out of the web the author had spun for Mark. It was a bit anti-climactic, and I don't think a real guilty person would do what Mark did. It felt more like a movie set up than realistic.


Anyway, overall it was another easy read. While these books haven't drawn any strong feelings from me, I'd say they're more gentle reads that are best for relaxing with.

3.5

Review ~ Teaching The Boss (Billionaires in the City, #1) by Mallory Crowe

ebook downloaded from Amazon for free.

Release Date: March 11th 2015

Description:
Business-school student April Morgan is ready to graduate--from school, from the secretary pool, and from never-gonna-happen fantasies involving Sam Hunt, her hunky billionaire boss. But when Sam’s girlfriend of the week pushes her too far, April finds herself quitting on the spot with only a mountain of student loan debt to keep her company. In steps Sam’s worst enemy, his father, with a job offer she can't refuse. 

Sam was born into privilege, but refused to live life with a silver spoon in his mouth. After a decade of hard work, he’s on the verge of taking his business public and proving to his tyrannical family that he can make it without their help. When he finds out that April is working for his father, he knows she’s been turned into a pawn in his father’s twisted games. 

Despite Sam’s warnings, April is determined to prove she doesn’t need him to make in New York City. But when she finds documents that could lead to Sam losing everything he’s worked for, April realizes that she and Sam have to work together to save the empire they’ve both worked to build.

My Opinion

Originally I passed over this title when I saw it on NetGalley. However, when I was intrigued by the sequel's blurb and I saw this on Amazon for free I thought it was worth a shot without the obligation to review it.

In general this was an enjoyable read. I was glad I picked it up and it surprised me by how well it hooked me. I didn't expect for it to hold my attention so well, but I found it a hard book to put down. There was plenty going on to keep me engaged and I thought thing were paced well.

Moreover I think I liked the character. Whilst I don't think I connected with them completely I was invested in their story. I wanted to know what was going to happen. I thought April was a strong character. I preferred her to Sam, who for a stubborn CEO seemed a bit wet with his personality. I'm glad she wasn't afraid to stand up to him and tell it like it was.

My only issue was there were a few continuity errors (eg such as with the mole). It had me jumping back in the book doubting my memory. Also I was left with some questions. They were only minor plot strand, but I feel if an author introduces the idea they should tie it up in the end.


Overall this was a surprising read. I'm glad the sequel caught my eye so I have this one a chance and I'll be reviewing book 2 soon.

3.5

Review ~ At Any Price (Gaming the System, #1) by Brenna Aubrey

ebook received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: December 9th 2013

Description:
Achievement Unlocked: Geek Virgin
When Mia Strong, proud geek-girl and popular gaming blogger, auctions off her virginity online, she knows she'll make waves. But what she will not be making is a love connection. Her rules are set in stone: One night. No further contact.

It's a desperate step, but it's the only way she can go to medical school and pay her mother's mounting hospital bills.

Difficulty Level: Millionaire CEO 
Adam Drake, the enigmatic auction winner, is a software prodigy who made his first million at seventeen. Now, in his mid-twenties, he's sexy, driven and--as CEO of his own gaming company--he's used to making the rules. Before Mia knows what's happening, he's found the loophole in the rules of her auction. Every stipulation she's made to protect her heart gets tossed by the wayside.

She can't tell if he's playing her...or if he's playing for keeps.

My Opinion

These types of books are always the ones I find hardest to review. Whilst At Any Price was enjoyable, it didn't draw any strong emotions from me and therefore I find it hard to write a review as I'm not overly passionate about it with love or hate.

I'm not really sure what I made of the whole virginity being auctioned off theme. I didn't really understand Emilia's motives for it or her reasoning. To me it didn't seem to be much different to the point she was trying to go against. In general really I didn't understand Emilia. I never fully connected with her. I felt she was a very cold and distance female lead and her constant mood swings irritated me. She had a habit of telling Adam what to do then moaning when he did it. She came across as whiny and permanently angry and I didn't feel there was enough emotional depths to the reasons behind that anger at the world.

Moreover, I found the pacing to be incredibly slow. Things were really predictable and therefore the constant back and forth between Adam and Emilia became repetitive. I figured out his secret early on so I was just waiting for everything to happen.

Saying that this book does have its good moments. I especially liked the scenes in Amsterdam and these moments did draw me in. After all, I did get to the end of this book so something must have kept me reading, right?


Overall, although it probably doesn't sound like it, this was an all right read and I wouldn't not recommend it. It takes a while to get going and slows down at the end, but there was something about it that made me continue. I'm not sure I'll pick up book two, but we'll see.

3

Review ~ Hotel of Seduction: The Complete Novel by Marina Anderson

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: June 18th 2015

Publisher: Sphere

Description:
Are you ready for a weekend away at the Hotel of Seduction?

Grace has won the man of her dreams - and her fantasies. Brooding, sensual, wealthy and handsome, their days and nights are filled with pleasure. But can this enigmatic man truly love her?

Together they have set up a secret, exclusive hotel for adventurous couples, designed to open their guests' eyes to the darker, deeper side of desire. But one of the visitors has an agenda, and David is becoming distracted by a new arrival.

As they explore the delights on offer, Grace realises this is a test: if she fails, she will lose David to his next passing fancy. If she succeeds, she will secure his love for ever, and he will finally invite her into his world . . .

Take some time away and allow yourself to be seduced by The Hotel of Seduction.

My Opinion

I stuck this out as long I could in the hope things would pick up. While parts are intriguing (what's going on with Amber) the writing is just so clinical and emotionless. I haven't created any kind of bond with the characters, I don't feel anything towards the females and I really dislike David. Because of this I'm finding myself skimming more and more. The story isn't enough to hold my attention and the writing is making me lose interest even more. Unfortunately I'm going to mark this as DNF.

Review ~ My Clarity (My Clarity #1) by M. Clarke

ebook received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: May 9th 2014

Description:
Still reeling from the death of her father, Alexandria hopes to find both independence and reprieve from her grief by heading off to college. However, life throws her a serious curveball when she discovers that her roommate isn’t quite the person she had imagined.

Smoking, tattoos, and street racing for fast cash are Elijah’s only interests. A harsh life has made him apathetic and indifferent, until Alexandria enters his life. When their paths cross, turmoil abounds.

An inevitable encounter, an undeniable attraction, and an unexpected chance at love—will it be enough?

My Opinion

This book has drawn mixed emotions from me so bare with me during this review. I'm still trying to get my head around what I think overall.

My Clarity started off well. While it was predictable what was happening with the room mate situation, I was intrigued to see how the author would develop things. It posed some interesting situations and I liked the relationships between the characters originally.

Similarly, I enjoyed this book until about 60%. It held my attention well and I liked the characters. I liked that the author was taking the time to develop the relationship between the characters and it was, but also wasn't insta-love. I'm also glad Elijah helped Alex through her dad's death and I thought her growth was good.

However, this book lost it for me in the end. My attention began to wane and I found myself very disinterested. For me I didn't like the romance. Elijah wasn't bad enough and I didn't see a transformation to the loving doting boyfriend. Moreover, I didn't really enjoy Alex's transformation. For a virgin she was incredibly forward.

I think my main problem was after such a build up, it didn't deliver. Things happened too quickly and it just lost the emotion and tension that had been developed. I can't place my finger on what was missing, but there was something for me. It felt a bit bland and left me on a note I can only describe as "meh".


Overall, the majority of this book is good. It's a shame the end didn't deliver, but I wouldn't not recommend it.

3